defang

[ dee-fang ]

verb (used with object)

1. to remove the fangs of:

   to defang a snake.

2. to cause to become less powerful or threatening; render harmless.

Word History and Origins

Origin of defang¹

First recorded in 1950–55; de- + fang ¹

Example Sentences

“This fits into the broader category of defanging government so the government can’t do the things we need and want it to do,” Cuello told me.

From Los Angeles Times

The asps — not snakes, she quickly corrects — are allegedly defanged and thus safe for her latest showcase.

From Salon

Not only does worrying about Trump’s Hitler parallels strengthen him, but having Walz defang “socialist” as free lunches for poor students so they can learn and stay off the streets already just feels right.

From Salon

Vance as ‘weird,’ the Democrats have defanged Republicans’ campaign of fear — and started to drive GOP leaders crazy.

From Los Angeles Times

“Clearly the Republicans are trying to defang the issue. It’s been a disaster for them.”

From Salon